encephilitis

[mis51]

At the young age of 2-3 I had contracted encephilitis.  I was in the hospital for a week and my parents had stated that I was very sick and that I was in a coma.  My parents have passed away and I do not have alot of information regarding this illness.
I am 48 and have been diagnosed with ADD and major depression.  All the medicines I have tried have not worked regarding my ADD.  I have never had an MRI or brain cat scan.  Something is wrong and no one can find the answer or wishes to test in depth.
Could this have been caused by the encephilitis and what do you suggest in the areas of testing for Adult ADD.  No one is willing to address this issue with me in depth.  Thank you.

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-JT]

In the medical literature, there are reports of ADHD developing in children after viral encephalitis.  No one is quite sure exactly what the cause of ADHD is, but it has been associated with early trauma and frontal lobe dysfunction. However, tHere's not much in the literature regarding adult onset ADHD. If neuropsychiatric and behavioral problems are your concern, there is formal neuropsyche testing available at many academic centers around the country including the Clinic. This can help the physician or psychologist analyze any problems with your cognition and some behavioral habits.  Start with a referral to neurology or neuropsyche. GOod luck.

[wendystation]

I invite you to join us at Encephalitis Global  ( http://groups.msn.com/EncephalitisGlobal ). We gain so much information and support, by sharing with each other.
Encephalitis Global is a website for survivors... created by a survivor.  With 700 members, and an average of 100 hits each day, we've become a very popular place for survivors, caregivers, loved ones... and folks who wish to learn more.